William Lambert Hamilton, Sr.

William Lambert “Bill” Hamilton, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on December 20, 2024, in Cleburne, Texas, at the age of 91. Born on September 5, 1933, in Palmer, Texas, Bill lived a life defined by dedication, craftsmanship, and service to others.

Bill is survived by his devoted wife of 70 years, Mary Ann Connell Hamilton. He leaves behind a cherished legacy through his children, William Hamilton and wife Kathleen, and Wayne Hamilton and wife Kara; his grandchildren, Shannon Roberson and husband Sam, Jonathon Hamilton, and Ryann Howe and husband Kody; and his great-grandchildren, Callie Roberson, Ethan Roberson, Rozalyn Hamilton, Amelia Hamilton, Elizabeth Hamilton, Barrett Howe, and Hadley Howe. Bill was also blessed with great-great-grandchildren, Thomas Shaffer and Emerson Hill, as well as an extended family who will forever hold his memory dear.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ommer Dean Hamilton and Catherine Thelma Pace Hamilton, and his brothers, Gerald Hamilton, F. N. Hamilton, and Ommer Dean Hamilton, Jr. 

Bill spent his formative years in Beaumont, Texas, where he graduated from South Park High School. On April 10, 1954, he married the love of his life, Mary Ann Connell. Shortly after graduating, Bill’s career as an oilfield mechanic with Continental Oil took the couple to Egypt for a year-long adventure. Upon returning to the United States, they settled in Dallas, where they welcomed their two sons. In 1972, the family moved to Ovilla, Texas, where Bill and Mary Ann built a warm and welcoming home, remaining there until 2019.

A lifelong mechanic, Bill’s expertise spanned industrial, commercial, and automotive fields. He owned and operated Ovilla Service Company, an automotive service and repair shop, earning the respect and trust of his community. Beyond his profession, Bill was deeply committed to public service, serving as the City of Ovilla’s Fire Chief from 1975 to 1985. 

Bill’s passion for classic cars was legendary. He took immense pride in restoring his 1934 Nash Lafayette, which he lovingly showcased at antique car shows. After retiring, Bill and Mary Ann dedicated their time to traveling and serving with Texas Baptist Men, using his mechanical skills to help those in need across the United States. 

A man of faith, Bill was a charter member of Ovilla Road Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon. He found great joy in working in his workshop, tinkering with everything from cars to tractors and lawnmowers. Above all, he treasured the time spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were his pride and joy. 

Bill’s life was a testament to hard work, generosity, and devotion to family and community. His legacy will continue to inspire all who knew him. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Texans On Mission (formerly Texas Baptist Men) at www.texansonmission.org.

Visitation with the family will be held on Monday, December 23, 2024, from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Wayne Boze Funeral Home followed by a funeral service at 6 p.m. in the Wayne Boze Funeral Home Chapel.

The family wishes to express their sincere gratefulness to the nurses and staffs of Bristol Park Assisted Living & Memory Care and Gateway Hospice for the loving care provided to Bill during the past few weeks.